Lim BT, Butow P, Mills J, Miller A, Goldstein D,

Lim BT, Butow P, Mills J, Miller A, Goldstein D, (click to view)

Lim BT, Butow P, Mills J, Miller A, Goldstein D,

AbstractOBJECTIVE
The information needs of patients and carers from culturally- and linguistically-diverse (CALD) backgrounds, including from the Chinese community, are not well understood, and there has been no previous synthesis of the literature. We conducted a systematic review of the information needs of the Chinese community affected by cancer.

METHODS
Database, reference list and author searches were conducted to identify studies reporting information needs of the Chinese community affected by cancer. Data synthesis was undertaken to define categories of information needs.

RESULTS
Initial searches yielded 2558 articles. Out of the 40 full-text articles reviewed, 26 met all the eligibility criteria. Cancer-specific, treatment and prognosis information were the most frequently reported information needs across the cancer care continuum. Similarly, these information were the most commonly reported information needs across different health systems, migration statuses and Chinese cultural values. Though less frequent, information needs related to interpersonal/social, financial/legal, and body image/sexuality were also raised. 13 studies quantified the prevalence of unmet needs, and the most frequently reported unmet needs were related to the health system and information, followed by psychological, patient care and support, and sexuality needs. Language and cultural factors were identified in all studies involving Chinese migrants living in English-speaking countries.

CONCLUSIONS
Failing to meet the information needs of the Chinese community members affected by cancer increases the risk for poor cancer outcomes. Potential interventions such as translated resources, bilingual advocates, an online information portal and communication aids can be helpful in addressing the unmet needs for this community.